he was very romantic and - of course - I miss him since he's passed away."

I paid for my flowers as she was gathering up her groceries. There was no doubt in my mind as I walked up to her. I touched her on the shoulder and said, "You were right, you know. These flowers are indeed for a very special lady." I handed her the flowers and thanked her for such a nice conversation.

It took her a moment to realize that I was giving her the flowers I had just purchased. "You have a wonderful evening," I said. I left her with a big smile and my heart warmed as I saw her smelling the beautiful flowers.

I remember being slightly late for my date that night and telling my girlfriend the above story. A couple of years later, when I finally worked up the courage to ask her to marry me, she told me that this story had helped to seal it for her - that was the night that I won her heart.

21. Why was the writer in a hurry that day?

A. He was delayed by an elderly lady.

B. He had to go back to school soon.

C. He was to meet his girlfriend.

D. He had to pick up some groceries.

22. What does the underlined phrase "her gift" (Paragraph 2) refer to?

A. Her words. B. Her smile.

C. Her flowers. D. Her politeness.

23. Why did the writer give his flowers to the elderly lady?

A. She told him a nice story. B. She allowed him to pay first.

C. She liked flowers very much. D. She gave him encouragement.

24. What is the message conveyed in the story?

A. Flowers are important for a date. B. Small talk is helpful.